What gradient should a wheelchair ramp be?

UK Building Regulations Part M specifies maximum gradients based on the height rise: 1:12 for rises up to 500mm, 1:15 for rises between 500mm and 750mm, and 1:20 for rises over 750mm. A gentler gradient is always better for wheelchair users. For new public buildings, 1:20 is recommended regardless of height.

How long does a ramp need to be for 3 steps?

Three typical steps represent a height rise of about 600mm (200mm per step). At the maximum wheelchair gradient of 1:12, the ramp would need to be 7.2m long. At the recommended 1:15 gradient, it would be 9.0m long. These lengths do not include the required top and bottom landings (minimum 1200mm each).

Do ramps need handrails on both sides?

Yes. UK Building Regulations require handrails on both sides of a ramp, positioned at 900mm to 1000mm above the ramp surface. Handrails must extend at least 300mm beyond the top and bottom of the ramp slope. For ramps wider than 2m, a central handrail is also recommended.

When are landings required on a ramp?

A level landing is required at the top and bottom of every ramp. For longer ramps, an intermediate landing is required every 10m of ramp length. Landings must be at least 1200mm long (1500mm is preferred) and at least as wide as the ramp. Landings are also required at any change of direction.

Is tactile paving required at ramps?

Yes. Corduroy tactile paving (hazard warning surface) should be installed at the top and bottom of ramps used by the public. The tactile surface should extend 400mm in the direction of travel across the full width of the ramp. This alerts visually impaired people to the change in level.

TradeCalcs

Ramp Calculator — Wheelchair Access & Gradient

Calculate ramp length, gradient, landings and handrails for wheelchair access ramps compliant with UK Building Regulations Part M and Part K.

Height Difference

Total height rise from bottom to top of ramp

Ramp Type

Wheelchair access uses Part M gradient limits

Ramp Width

Min 1200mm for wheelchair access (1500mm preferred)

How We Calculate This

This calculator determines the correct ramp design based on UK Building Regulations Part M (Access to and use of buildings) and Part K (Protection from falling). It automatically selects the appropriate gradient based on the height rise.

Part M gradient requirements

Up to 500mm rise: Maximum gradient 1:12
500mm to 750mm rise: Maximum gradient 1:15
Over 750mm rise: Maximum gradient 1:20

Key requirements

Minimum width: 1200mm (1500mm preferred for wheelchair passing)
Landings: Top, bottom, and every 10m of ramp length (min 1200x1200mm)
Handrails: Both sides at 900-1000mm height, extending 300mm past each end
Tactile paving: Corduroy hazard warning at top and bottom
Surface: Must be firm, durable and slip-resistant

The ramp length is calculated as: height difference x gradient ratio. For example, a 600mm rise at 1:15 gradient = 0.6 x 15 = 9m ramp length.

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.